County program helps flood victims with new furnaces, water heaters

Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato has reinstated a free County program to help residents replace furnaces and hot water heaters that were damaged as a result of flooding due to the severe weather on Wed., June 17.

"We're still assessing the damage from last night's storms, but we know there are residents who need our help," said Mr. Onorato. "I have reinstated the residential furnace and hot water heater program so we can help people get back on their feet during these tough economic times."

Allegheny County will repair or replace furnaces and hot water heaters in residences where the existing units were damaged or destroyed by flood waters. Residents who earn up to 80 percent of the area median income are eligible for the program.

Allegheny County residents may apply for the free program by calling 412-350-3723 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by e-mailing their name and phone number to furnace@alleghenycounty.us. Applicants for the program must have proof of income.

Mr. Onorato originally created the residential furnace and hot water heater program following the flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ivan in September 2004. Following that storm, the County installed nearly 550 new furnaces and hot water tanks in damaged homes in 68 municipalities.